The 1.5-month cap and the move-in notice
MCL 554.602 caps security deposits at one and one-half months' rent. Under MCL 554.603, a landlord may not require a deposit unless, within 14 days after you take possession, it gives you a written notice with its name and address, the financial institution or surety holding the deposit, and a boldface warning that you must provide a forwarding address in writing within 4 days after you move.
Inventory checklists at both ends
MCL 554.608 requires inventory checklists at move-in and move-out. You get two blank copies at the start, have 7 days to note the condition and return one, and may ask for the previous tenant's termination checklist. The deposit may cover only actual damage beyond normal habitation, unpaid rent, rent for early termination and unpaid utilities (MCL 554.607).
The notice of damages, and your 7 days
Within 30 days after occupancy ends, the landlord must mail an itemized list of damages with estimated repair costs, along with the balance (MCL 554.609). Under a 2026 amendment (Act 102, effective September 21, 2026), the balance may be sent by direct deposit or electronic transfer instead of a check, within 10 days after the notice is mailed. If the landlord misses the 30-day deadline, it has agreed that no damages are due and must return the full deposit immediately (MCL 554.610).
The 45-day lawsuit rule and double damages
If you dispute the charges, MCL 554.613 says the landlord may keep disputed money only after winning a money judgment, and must file within 45 days after occupancy ends. There are exceptions: you gave no forwarding address, you did not respond to the notice, you agreed in writing, or the claim is only for unpaid rent. A landlord that does not comply waives all claimed damages and owes you double the amount of the deposit retained. The calculator applies this.
Steps to recover a Michigan deposit
- Return the move-in checklist within 7 days and keep a copy.
- Mail your forwarding address within 4 days after you move out.
- Answer any notice of damages by mail within 7 days.
- If day 45 passes with no lawsuit and no refund, demand double the amount retained and file a claim in small claims court.
Neighboring states
Ohio has no cap but charges interest on large deposits. Illinois requires interest from larger landlords.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum security deposit in Michigan?
One and one-half months' rent (MCL 554.602).
How long does a Michigan landlord have to send my deposit back?
30 days after occupancy ends, with an itemized notice of damages (MCL 554.609). Missing it means the landlord must return the full deposit (MCL 554.610).
Do I have to respond to a Michigan notice of damages?
Yes. Respond by mail within 7 days or you forfeit the amount claimed (MCL 554.612).
When does a Michigan landlord owe double the deposit?
When it keeps disputed money without filing a lawsuit within 45 days, or otherwise fails to comply with MCL 554.613. It then owes double the amount retained.
Sources
- MCL 554.602 — deposit limit (Michigan Legislature)
- MCL 554.603 — required move-in notice (Michigan Legislature)
- MCL 554.608 — inventory checklists (Michigan Legislature)
- MCL 554.609 — notice of damages (Michigan Legislature)
- MCL 554.612 — tenant response within 7 days (Michigan Legislature)
- MCL 554.613 — 45-day lawsuit rule and double damages (Michigan Legislature)
Last reviewed Oct 17, 2026. Read how we verify. Found an error? Tell us.